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TPL's Work in the Daniel Boone National Forest

A mesmerizing waterful Photo: U.S. Forest Service

Located within the mountains of eastern Kentucky and encompassing over 697,902 acres of land, the majestic Daniel Boone National Forest is a location worth visiting. With rugged mountainsides, steep forested ridges, narrow valleys, and over 3,400 miles of cliff line, the park is a place to experience.

The forest includes two large lakes -- Cave Run Lake and Laurel River Lake --, numerous rivers and streams, and the 269-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail that extends the length of the forest. The park's diverse characteristics allow visitors to take part in a wide variety of recreational activities such as camping, picnicking, rock climbing, boating, hunting and fishing, and, of course, simply relaxing. With so many attractions, the Daniel Boone National Forest has become one of the most heavily used forests in the South, with over five million visitors annually.

Photo:  U.S. Forest Service

The Trust for Public Land recognizes the importance and value of the Daniel Boone National Forest and its dedication toward achieving quality land management to meet the diverse needs of people. In recent years, TPL has protected two major properties within the park.      

The shoreline of Rockcastle River within the Daniel Boone National Forest is a favorite spot to spend afternoons relaxing and taking in the beauty of the water and natural surroundings. Campers, hikers, canoeists, and wildlife observers all flock to this area. With the persistence and hard work of TPL, 1,300 acres of wooded land along the Rockcastle River were permanently protected. In addition to increasing public access to the river, designated one of Kentucky's Wild Rivers, preserving this property protects valuable habitat for a variety of endangered species including the bald eagle and eastern cougar.

Photo: U.S. Forest Service

TPL also helped protect 700 acres of land with significant historical value within the Red River Gorge Area -- part of the largest concentration of natural arches and rock shelters east of the Rocky Mountains. Carved over millions of years by wind and water, these rock shelters were home to the Shawnee and several other Native American tribes. Historical documents and archaeological evidence suggest that these Daniel Booone also took shelter in these formations. Linking the forest and the Kentucky Natural Bridge State Resort Park, this site also provides opportunities for extended visits with 80 campsites and indoor overnight facilities available.

Posted 3/2003